Christopher Conley '27 Recruiting Profile

Hello College Coaches,

My name is Chris Conley, and I am a Class of 2027 soccer player. 

Highlights:      Former MLS Next Academy Player (6 years, 2017-2023)

Current EDP CT Championship League Player (2023 to current)

Current High School Player (2023 to current)

I am a versatile player for any team.  However, my primary position throughout my career has been as Center back.   I am also comfortable in playing the either Outside Back or Center Defensive Mid position and have also played several games in the winger position.  Being versatile gives me an advantage, as coaches can use me as they need in any given game or season.  My goal is to make the team the best we can be!

I played the majority of my career on a MLS Next Academy Team (Oakwood Soccer Club, Glastonbury/Portland, CT).   During this time, I was fortunate to work with several top professional coaches and learn from their experiences.  I have played against other MLS Academy teams such as Toronto FC, NYCFC, New England Revolution, and IFA (Juventus Academy). 

As early as my seventh grade year and then heading into high school, I attended several high school open houses.  During those discovery sessions, I was heavily recruited to play for my high school (East Catholic, Manchester, CT).  Ultimately, after weighing several options, I made the tough decision to transition from MLS Next play to high school and Academy play. 

In making this transition, I was highly recruited during a tournament by another premier academy, Northeast United Premier (NEU) out of Mansfield, CT.  This club team gives me the opportunity to play for my high school in the fall, but then continue during the winter and spring at a higher training and competition level.

My continuous training and play does not stop with “official” seasons.  I continue to train during the summer months with my high school teammates by doing two 120 minute soccer training sessions per week, two 60 minute team lifting/strength training sessions per week, and one 90 minute game during the week.  This training continues to keep me fit and my skills in top form.

What makes a good player, great?  Constantly learning and improving.  I have been fortunate to train with several coaches throughout my career who I credit for my love of soccer.  My coaches will tell you that I bring a balance of a calm presence to the field, but can turn up the aggressiveness as the pace of play dictates and requires.  I balance strong defensive skills with innately knowing when is the correct time to attack and win the ball.  I have a high soccer IQ, make good decisions with ball, never give up, and balance that with a strong level of athleticism.  I am a difference maker on the field. 

I am not the most expressive personality off the field, but put me on the field and I will show you a coachable, smart, respectful, and tactical player.  I also believe that every team is only as good as their weakest player(s), therefore I am a huge proponent of ensuring all my teammates feel valued, included, and are working hard.   There is no room for toxicity within any team.  No player is perfect, but when mistakes are made, you need to regroup, reset, and go win the next 2 minutes as a team.

I look forward to meeting you soon,

Chris Conley